Xavi: 'Amazing' Neymar would fit in at Barcelona

The Brazil international is rumoured to be on the verge of moving to Catalunya, and the Spain star has welcomed the notion of linking up with the starlet

Xavi is enthused by Barcelona's reported interest in Neymar, claiming that the Santos starlet is a unique talent that would fit in at any club in the world.

There is mounting speculation that the Brazil international's proposed move to Camp Nou after next year's World Cup will be brought forward and that the 21-year-old will instead arrive in Catalunya this summer.

Xavi, for one, is hoping that the rumours are true, even though he knows that it is for Barca's directors to decide if Neymar is right for Tito Vilanova's side.

"Players like him can fit in at any club," the Spain international told reporters on Wednesday. "But decisions to sign players are made by others. Whomever arrives at the club, they will be welcomed with open arms.

"But Neymar is an amazing player; there is something different about him.

"For defenders, he is very tricky to contain and he is excellent when on his own in front of the keeper.

"He looks like he could be one of the big names in world football."

While Neymar could join Barcelona this summer, Victor Valdes looks destined to leave, with the goalkeeper, who is out of contract next year, having turned down the offer of a new deal.

Xavi freely admits that the Catalan shot-stopper will be sorely missed by the Blaugrana should he depart for pastures new.

"I have not thought about what other players might be leaving us," he explained. "But I know that he's [Valdes] not going to renew his contract.

"It's a shame but it's his decision. He is a top player and a top person. It's a big loss for us, there's no doubt about that. He gives us stability and security, so we will miss him in that sense.

"We hope whoever comes to replace him can perform to the same level as Victor."